Experience a life-changing journey into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Guided by experienced trackers, you’ll navigate dense, mist-laden trails, immersing yourself in the lush rainforest teeming with unique flora and fauna. The trek, varying from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the gorillas’ location, culminates in a profound encounter with a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Observing these gentle giants—especially a dominant silverback—from a respectful distance offers a rare glimpse into their complex social structures and behaviors. This intimate experience not only fosters a deep connection with one of our closest relatives but also contributes to vital conservation efforts, as tourism plays a significant role in protecting these endangered primates and supporting local communities. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure that combines physical challenge, natural beauty, and meaningful impact.
Our driver/guide will pick you up from your preferred pick up point to begin your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You will get to take in beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, rolling hills, and plantations as you travel. You will make two stops: one at the Equator for photos and mementos, and the other for lunch in Mbarara. In the late afternoon, you will reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and register at your lodge or camp. You will have dinner and relax for the night.
You’ll get up early and eat breakfast at your camp or lodge. After that, you’ll proceed to the park’s administrative building for a briefing on the guidelines for gorilla trekking. Additionally, a ranger guide will be assigned to take you. You will begin your gorilla trekking adventure in the thick rainforest by following the gorillas’ trails as allocated by the local guide. Depending on where the gorillas are and how they’re behaving, the trek may last 2 to 6 hours. You must be physically fit and equipped to handle the treacherous terrain and climatic conditions. You will spend an hour with the gorillas after you’ve located them, watching how they behave and interact. Additionally, you will be able to capture images and videos of these gentle giants. You must maintain a minimum of 7 meters between you and the gorillas and adhere to the directions of your ranger guide. You will return to your lodge or camp for lunch and some downtime following the gorilla trekking. You will travel to a nearby Bakiga or Batwa community in the afternoon. You will gain knowledge of their history, culture, and way of life. Additionally, you will witness their dances, crafts, and tales. You will be able to contribute to their conservation and community projects. For dinner and the night, you will return to your camp or lodge.
After breakfast, you’ll check out of your camp or lodge. After that, your journey back to your preferred drop off point will begin. You will make a few stops along the way for lunch and refreshments. You will arrive at your drop off point in the evening
Encounter Mountain Gorillas in Their Natural Habitat: You will embark on a guided trek through the dense, misty forests of Bwindi to observe mountain gorillas up close. Spend a magical hour watching their behaviors and interactions—a truly unforgettable experience.
Immerse Yourself in Rich Biodiversity: This experience offers an opportunity to discover a rainforest teeming with life, including over 120 mammal species, 350 bird species, and a myriad of butterflies and plants.
Support Conservation Efforts: Your gorilla trekking permit directly contributes to the preservation of these endangered primates and their habitat, aiding anti-poaching patrols and community development.
Engage with Local Communities: You will have a chance to visit nearby villages to learn about the traditions and customs of the Bakiga and Batwa peoples, gaining insight into their harmonious coexistence with nature.
Explore Stunning Landscapes: You will traverse verdant trails, encounter cascading waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic views of the forested hills—each step revealing the serene beauty of Bwindi’s untouched wilderness.
Create Unforgettable Memories: Whether it’s the awe of meeting a silverback gorilla or the tranquility of the forest, this adventure promises moments that will stay with you forever.
What is included on the Trip cost
What is excluded
You can enhance your gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by participating in Shakes Travel’s Let’s Go Green Uganda campaign. This optional tree-planting activity allows you to contribute directly to reforestation efforts, aiding in the restoration of degraded areas and the preservation of vital habitats for mountain gorillas. By planting indigenous tree species, you support biodiversity, combat climate change, and foster sustainable livelihoods for local communities. This initiative not only enriches your travel experience but also leaves a lasting positive impact on the environment and the people who call this unique ecosystem home.
A: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is open all year round, but the dry seasons from June to August and December to February are the best times to visit. The trails are less muddy and more visible during these months. But the park is equally lovely and lush from March to May and from September to November, when it rains. Every day of the year is a good time to see gorillas.
A: You should bring lightweight, cozy clothing that you can layer up or down depending on the weather. A raincoat or poncho, a sweater or fleece, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a flashlight, binoculars, a camera, extra batteries, and other items should also be packed. You should dress in long-sleeved clothing, sturdy hiking boots, gardening gloves, and a walking stick when trekking with gorillas. Additionally, make sure to pack some snacks and water in a small backpack
A: A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Uganda. For additional vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis, you should also speak with your doctor. You ought to travel with a first aid kit and your personal medication. Ice cubes and raw food should be avoided, and you should only drink bottled or boiled water. Additionally, you ought to stay away from insects and animals.
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